Provigil (modafinil) is a medication prescribed primarily for narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome and shift work disorder. It is believed to work by altering the neurotransmitters in the brain and helps people to stay awake during the day by treating the excessive sleepiness caused by these disorders. It is important to be aware of the side effects of this potent drug and to know when you should contact your medical provider if serious side effects are experienced.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Provigil usage are headache, anxiety, nervousness, nausea and trouble sleeping. According to the Mayo Clinic, these side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the drug and do not require the attention of your physician.
Less-Common Side Effects
Provigil has many less-common side effects. Check with your doctor as soon as you can if you experience vision changes such as blurred vision, chills or fever, chest pain, confusion, dizziness or fainting. Other side effects that require your doctor's attention are mental depression, unsteadiness or clumsiness, increased urination and thirstiness, rapid mood changes, loss of memory, sore throat, shortness of breath, and uncontrolled movements of the mouth, tongue or face.
Less-common side effects that do not require medical attention are belching, back pain, diarrhea, black tarry stools and difficulty having a bowel movement. A runny or stuffy nose, loss of appetite, ulcers, sores or white spots in the mouth and dryness of mouth have also been reported. Patients have also experienced flushing and redness of the skin, dry skin, prickling, tingling or burning sensations, unusual bruising or bleeding and a feeling of constant movement. Other less-common side effects are heartburn, indigestion, sour stomach or stomach discomfort, vomiting, muscle stiffness, swelling, trembling or shaking and unusual weakness or tiredness.
Signs of Overdose
It is important to recognize the signs of a Provigil overdose, so they are not mistaken for a less-common side effect. Overdose signs are a pounding or fast heartbeat, agitation or excitement, trouble sleeping and increased blood pressure.
Severe Reactions
You should stop taking Provigil immediately and contact your physician if you develop a skin rash while taking Provigil. According to the Drugs.com website, a similar medication has caused severe skin reactions that sometimes require hospitalization. In addition, severe reactions include sore throat, fever, headache and vomiting along with a severe peeling, blistering and red skin rash.
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